Boutique Hotel Design Architect

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development support

Flexible project involvement

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Boutique Hotel Design Architect to lead conceptual and detailed design across hospitality projects. The role blends client engagement with hands-on development, from sketches to construction oversight.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in hospitality design, a strong portfolio, and proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and rendering tools. Hybrid work with a collaborative studio culture is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelors or Masters in Architecture with hospitality project experience.
• Strong design portfolio showing luxury hospitality spaces.
• Excellent communication and client management skills.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop boutique hotel, lodge and resort designs.
• Collaborate with clients to understand vision, brand identity, and requirements.
• Create design presentations including mood boards, 3D visuals, and drawings.
• Select finishes, furnishings, and fixtures within budget.
• Coordinate with interior designers, landscape architects, and consultants.
• Ensure designs meet codes and standards and oversee documentation.
• Conduct site feasibility studies for hospitality developments.
• Maintain client relationships and support business development.
• Oversee design implementation during construction.

Skills

Client management

Communication

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor or Master of Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

V-Ray

Lumion

Job description

About the Role Our client, a progressive architectural studio known for its distinctive work in hospitality design, is seeking a talented Boutique Hotel Design Architect to join their creative hub in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This role offers the unique chance to conceptualize and execute stunning, bespoke hotel and resort designs that offer memorable guest experiences. You will be involved in every aspect of the design process, from initial client engagement and conceptual sketching to detailed design development and project oversight. The ideal candidate possesses a flair for innovative spatial design, a keen eye for detail in finishes and materials, and a passion for the hospitality industry. Based in the scenic coastal city of Durban, this Hybrid role allows for collaboration with an experienced team while offering flexibility. This is an exciting opportunity to leave your mark on the burgeoning hospitality sector in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative architectural designs for boutique hotels, lodges, and resorts.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their vision, brand identity, and operational requirements.
• Create compelling design presentations, including mood boards, 3D visualizations, and detailed architectural drawings.
• Select interior finishes, furnishings, and fixtures that align with the project's design concept and budget.
• Coordinate with interior designers, landscape architects, and other consultants.
• Ensure designs are practical, aesthetically pleasing, and meet all relevant building codes and standards.
• Manage project documentation and specifications for procurement and construction.
• Conduct site feasibility studies and analyses for potential hospitality developments.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients and contribute to business development efforts.
• Oversee the design implementation during the construction phase.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Architecture or Master of Architecture degree.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant architectural experience, with a strong portfolio in hospitality design.
• Demonstrated creativity and expertise in designing unique and luxurious hospitality spaces.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and rendering programs (e.g., V-Ray, Lumion).
• Experience with interior design principles and FF&E selection is a plus.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client management skills.
• Ability to interpret and translate brand concepts into physical spaces.
• Understanding of local building codes and regulations in Durban.
• Passion for travel, hospitality, and innovative design trends.
• Strong conceptualization and problem-solving abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration based on experience and project involvement.
• Flexible working arrangements with a Hybrid model.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile and visually striking hospitality projects.
• Exposure to diverse design challenges within the Durban hospitality scene.
• Collaborative studio environment with a focus on creativity.
• Professional development support.
• Potential for long‑term contract engagement based on performance.